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1. In my many early years settings, there are often themed role play areas, such as hospitals, vets,
shops and travel agents. However, in recent years a debate has been formed over the
effectiveness of these areas. It has been argued that these themed areas could even restrict the
imagination of children. The majority of children have most likely never been to a travel agent
or vets surgery and therefore do not know how to role play these situations. This is where
deconstructed role play comes in.
Deconstructed role play literally means deconstructing your role play area. This involves
dismantling your traditional, themed role play area and replacing it with open ended resources
that all children can use. The children can use these resources to create whatever situation they
would like.
Some resources that could be used to create a deconstructed role play area are:
● boxes
● cardboard
● materials
● empty cable wheels
● fabric
● string
● crates
The children can use these resources in any way they would like, to create any theme they
would like. The area can transform into anything and the children do not need any prior
knowledge or experience to be able to engage with this area. The children can use their
imagination and play without limits or restrictions. Each child may use their imagination in a
different way. One child could use the boxes to make a sports car, while another child could
use the same box to use as a table for a tea party. The children are in control of their own
learning.